Recommended Western ballad songs for weddings and receptions: moving classics and popular hits, both old and new.

Our LoveNatalie Cole

Natalie Cole – Our Love

Natalie Cole, daughter of Nat King Cole, the great American jazz pianist and singer, is an artist whose talent rivals her father’s.

With Pink Cadillac, she topped both the R&B and Adult Contemporary charts on the U.S.

Billboard and reached No.

2 on the UK Official Singles Chart, among many other achievements.

The song Our Love is an outstanding ballad that showcases the captivating allure of Natalie Cole’s vocals.

Love Me Like You DoEllie Goulding

Ellie Goulding – Love Me Like You Do (Official Video)

A gem of a love song that blends a sweet, wistful vocal with a grand, cinematic sound.

Ellie Goulding’s translucent voice beautifully conveys deep affection and devoted emotion for her partner.

The exhilarating rush of falling in love and the unconditional trust in someone precious resonate through the beautiful melodic lines.

Released in January 2015 and widely talked about as the theme song for the film “Fifty Shades of Grey,” the track is also included on the album “Delirium.” It became a massive hit, topping the UK charts for four consecutive weeks.

Perfect for a wedding recessional, it creates a warmly celebratory atmosphere that brings the newlyweds and guests together as one.

Make You Feel My LoveAdele

Adele – Make You Feel My Love (Official Video)

An eternal love song that sings of deep affection and devotion that moves everyone.

It carries a pure vow to stay by someone’s side even when they face loneliness or hardship.

Adele’s soulful vocals and the piano accompaniment beautifully express compassion and tenderness for a loved one.

Released in October 2008 as the fourth single from her debut album “19,” it reached number 26 on the UK Singles Chart.

In 2010, it gained renewed attention after a performance on The X Factor and went on to be certified Platinum in the UK.

Now a staple for weddings and proposals, this song is perfect for reaffirming your deep love for someone special or adding a touch of magic to a memorable moment.

You’re the InspirationCHICAGO

Chicago – You’re the Inspiration (Official Music Video)

Chicago, the rock band known to all, delivers a gem of a ballad tenderly wrapped in everlasting love and gratitude.

Its refreshing piano tones and warmly resonant melody line stir emotions that bring a lump to your throat.

Released in October 1984 and reaching No.

3 on the U.S.

Billboard chart the following January, this major hit appears on the album Chicago 17.

It gracefully weaves deep feelings and appreciation for a loved one, celebrating the wonder of fateful love.

Perfect for making life’s important moments even more memorable, it’s a popular choice for special occasions—such as a first dance at a wedding.

Kiss MeSixpence None The Richer

Sixpence None The Richer – Kiss Me (She’s All That official music video)

Released in 1997, “Kiss Me” is a signature song by the American rock band Sixpence None the Richer—a neo-acoustic pure love song.

The sweet, adorable voice of female vocalist Leigh Nash makes it irresistibly charming.

If you play it for the bride and groom’s entrance at a wedding or reception, it will surely fill the entire venue with a warm, cheerful atmosphere.

If I Ain’t Got YouAlicia Keys

Alicia Keys – If I Ain’t Got You (Official HD Video)

Without someone to love, wealth and fame mean nothing—this is a stirring R&B ballad that sings of eternal love.

Alicia Keys’s soulful voice and classical piano melodies gracefully express the preciousness of love.

While contrasting the emptiness of those who chase materialism and fame, it asks what truly matters.

Released from the album “The Diary of Alicia Keys,” the song won the Grammy Award for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance after its February 2004 release.

In 2023, an orchestral arrangement was featured in the Netflix series “Queen Charlotte,” bringing a new wave of emotion.

It’s a perfect track for moments when you want to convey your feelings to someone special, such as a proposal or a wedding.

Marry YouBruno Mars

Bruno Mars – Marry You (Official Lyric Video)

A love message song inspired by a spontaneous Las Vegas wedding that adds sparkle to any anniversary.

Crafted by American artist Bruno Mars, this lively number beautifully blends doo-wop rhythms reminiscent of 1960s pop with a modern pop sound.

Included on the 2010 album “Doo-Wops & Hooligans,” it received high acclaim on charts around the world.

The track has also enjoyed extensive media exposure, including its use on the TV show Glee and in a viral proposal video on YouTube.

It’s the perfect song for a proposal or as background music for an anniversary video—a gem of a love song that expresses deep affection for someone special with a bright and joyful touch.